Hyundai A-League reaches milestone 1000th game

The Hyundai A-League celebrates a significant milestone on Sunday when Melbourne Victory and Newcastle Jets play the 1000th A-League game.

The Hyundai A-League celebrates a significant milestone on Sunday when Melbourne Victory and Newcastle Jets play the 1000th A-League game (AAMI Park, kick off 5pm).

The Hyundai A-League burst into life on Friday 26 August 2005 when Newcastle Jets hosted Adelaide United at Energy Australia Stadium (now Hunter Stadium).

Adelaide United striker and former Socceroo Carl Veart scored the first A-League goal to deliver the first three points to the Reds with a 1-0 win.

In keeping with the Hyundai A-League-s commitment to “Put the fans first”, A-League official partner Hankook Tyres will offer prizes for two lucky fans attending Sunday-s match;

• the 1000th purchaser of an on-line ticket
• the 1000th fan to enter AAMI Park

Both winners will receive $1,000 worth of tyres thanks to Hankook Tyres.

Head of the Hyundai A-League Damien de Bohun heralded the 1000th match as another sign of the competition-s growing stature.

“The A-League was an ambitious start-up in 2005, but 1000 games later the competition is entrenched in the sporting landscape in Australia,” said de Bohun.

“There-s still a huge buzz around the A-League and the astonishing growth trajectory of the early days is once again the trend.

“Over nine seasons, A-League clubs have attracted over 10 million fans, competed with distinction in Asia and become popular in Australian households thanks to world-class live TV coverage. It all adds up to a competition that-s on the move with an exciting outlook.”

Melbourne Victory Head Coach Kevin Muscat said he was thrilled Melbourne Victory was able to host the Hyundai A-League-s 1000th clash.

“We as a club are very proud to be hosting this historic match at AAMI Park, a venue built for football,” Muscat said.

“It-s amazing to see how far the Hyundai A-League has come in just nine seasons. There have been plenty of successes and wonderful stories over the years and we are delighted to have played our part in making this league what it is today.”